Mulch circles are good for trees

6:45 AM,
Oct. 8, 2012

Enlarge the mulch circle each year as the tree grows.

Written by

Steve Boehme
Gardening Colmnist

Have you ever wondered why commercial landscapes have big circles of mulch around the base of each tree? Perhaps you've see big mounds of mulch around trees. Why do landscapers do this, and is it a good idea?

There are many reasons to mulch around trees. Mowing is easier if you don't have to trim grass right up to the tree trunk. Making a big mulch circle around the tree keeps grass from competing with the tree for water and food. It also prevents damage from lawn mowing, a cause of many tree problems, and helps keep the root zone cool and moist.